DeKalb Parks Foundation Launches to Support Local Parks, Equity, and Wellness
The DeKalb Park District is proud to announce the formation of the DeKalb Parks Foundation, a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to support equitable access to parks and recreation for all community members. With a focus on social equity, health and wellness, and conservation, the Foundation will play a critical role in ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, can benefit from the transformative power of parks and programs.
The Foundation will make its debut during Give DeKalb County on Thursday, May 1, joining over a hundred nonprofit organizations in a one-day online giving campaign to raise funds for local causes. Community members can show their support by donating to givedekalbcounty.org/ organizations/dekalb-parks- foundation
“The launch of the DeKalb Parks Foundation represents our commitment to strengthening community connections and expanding access to DeKalb Park District programs,” said Paul Zepezauer, Executive Director of the DeKalb Park District. “Donations to the DeKalb Parks Foundation are tax-deductible and may be unrestricted or designated by the donor as restricted for a specific purpose, such as a park or recreation facility improvement project or a program for financial assistance.”
In addition to Zepezauer, the Foundation’s board also includes Chrissy Tluczek, Superintendent of Recreation, and Mat Emken, Superintendent of Parks—each bringing extensive experience and a shared dedication to improving the quality of life for DeKalb residents.
As part of its first fundraising efforts, the Foundation will also help Park District staff organize the 19th Annual Golf Fore the Kids Scholarship Golf Outing on Friday, June 20 (rain date June 27), at River Heights Golf Course, 1020 Sharon Drive. Open to participants ages 16 and older, this popular event raises essential funds for the District’s Scholarship Assistance Program, which helps families in need access youth programs, camps, and recreation opportunities.
Golfers can look forward to:
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18 holes of golf with a cart
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Lunch, drink tickets, and afternoon appetizers
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Swag bag and hat for the first 100 golfers
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Raffles, golden ticket blind bogey winners, and an awards ceremony
Participants may take advantage of Early Bird Pricing, which ends April 30, Twosome $180 / Foursome $320, or choose Regular Pricing: Twosome $200 / Foursome $400. Register, donate, or sponsor at: https://riverheightsgc.com/ events/golf-fore-the-kids- scholarship-golf-outing/
The fundraiser outing is already generously sponsored by the Larson and Darby Group, IHC Construction, Sikich, and Speer Financial.
For more information about the DeKalb Parks Foundation and more ways to give back to DeKalb, visit dekalbparksfoundation.org.